Using Your Gift Card at Gas Stations
When using your Visa or Mastercard gift card at a gas station, follow these recommendations to avoid pre-authorization holds and declined transactions.
Avoid Swiping at the Pump
- Pre-Authorization Charge: If you swipe your card at the pump, a pre-authorization charge between $75-$200will be applied to your card. This hold will remain until the actual amount settles, usually within 3-7 business days.
Pay at the Cashier
- Recommended Method: Always pay inside at the cashier and request a specific amount to be charged to your card. This ensures only the intended amount is debited from your card.
Virtual Cards:
- Note: Virtual Visa and Mastercard gift cards cannot be used at gas stations.
Troubleshooting Fuel Purchases
- Declined Transactions: Declined fuel purchases usually occur when the card is swiped at the pump or when the cashier authorizes an amount higher than the available balance.
- Pre-Authorization Hold: If the available balance is less than the pre-authorization request (typically around $200), funds will be placed on hold for about 4 days, and the transaction will not be processed.
- Exact Amount: Cashiers can often process the card for the exact amount you request. If they authorize an amount greater than the balance, the transaction will be declined, and a pre-authorization hold will occur.
Hold Expiration: Pre-authorization holds typically expire within 4 days, and the funds will be available on your card without needing further action
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